EXPLORATION OF THE CLASS STRUGGLE AND THE NIGERIAN SCHOOL SYSTEM IMAGE OF A STRATIFIED SOCIETY

Abstract

The concept of class was propounded by Marx (1883) in Haralambos and, Holborns (2008) who employed it, in one of his theory to describe the degree of exploitation perpetrated by the ruling class, called the capitalist (Bourgeoisie) against the serf or laborers in the bid to maximize profit (Marx, 1883;  Payne, 2006). This act is still evident in the Nigerian School system, in which the status and class determines the quality and quantity of learning made available to learners. The Nigerian school system has passed through series of changes and modification that has caused unequal access to education among the class strata. Thus, this paper would employ, historical antecedent, considering the concept of ‘free education’. The present picture of our schools, in relation to the expected socialization roles of the schools, in producing desirable adult members of the society, and the reality, which would make meaningful contribution to societal development.